Page 5 of A Lord's Bet of Desire

“Point taken.”

In the silence that followed, Edward could hear the rain still pouring down outside. There’d be no chance to return to his estate after supper. “Have you a room prepared for me?”

“I have upwards of twenty rooms prepared for you. Have your pick.”

“Most kind.”

Edward quickly finished his tea. The flavour was a tad too weak for his taste, but the temperature was hot, and it warmed Edward’s bones. Not that he needed much warming because his natural temperature seemed to run high. He was famous for not wearing a coat in the winter, despite Harrison’s suggestions.

“Have you received correspondence from Lady Anna Rutley?”

Edward was in shock that Norman knew of that. Lady Anna was a society woman that had sent Edward some courteous notes, but he could tell the intent behind them. Anna’s father was an earl that Edward had met on several occasions. The gentleman was wealthy. Not as wealthy as Edward, but he clearly had aspirations for his daughter. Anna was kind enough, though there was something about her bearing, which Edward observed in all ladies of exquisite breeding. She was a tad cold. If only Edward could find someone that shared his same hot blood.

“Anna is a very cordial lady. She has written to me on occasion.”

“And what do you think of that? For the future?”

Edward had to laugh. “Brother, are you playing the matchmaker? Perhaps we should discuss your own need for a wife.”

Norman appeared flustered and got up from his seat, walking over to the window. “What would I do with a wife?”

“I can tell you precisely what to do with a wife.”

“Don’t be crude, brother.”

Edward shook his head. Why should it be crude to refer to matters of the flesh? It was natural and something that Edward relished. In fact, he greatly looked forward to having a wife that was just as enthusiastic about such matters. “I do not see it is crude. It shocks me that you do.”

Norman began to ramble about other matters to change the subject. Edward poured more tea and discovered that it was already cold. Norman asked, “Should I ring the bell?”

“Don’t bother. I’ll seek it out on foot.” Edward exited the library and walked down the hall. He’d ask for tea from the first servant that he encountered.

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